Belfast Giants: Canadian Ruopp "very very excited" to be latest signing
Last updated 30th Jul 2021
The Belfast Giants have added Canadian defenceman Sam Ruopp to their already impressive list of signings for the new season.
The 25-year-old captained Major Junior hockey team, the Prince George Cougars between 2014-2017, playing 258 in the Western Hockey League, recording 16 goals, 75 assists, alongside 346 penalty minutes and a plus-35 rating.
Ruopp explains the road to putting pen to paper for Adam Keefe’s side.
“I've been in contact with Steve Thornton (Giants Head of Hockey) for a few years now.
“He touched base back when I was in university and I explained to him that I wanted to get my degree first before playing and ever since then, every year we've just been staying in contact.
“Actually, a few players who I played on the Huskies with; Josh Roach, Kendall McFall and Jesse Forsberg played in Belfast, so they kind of opened the door for me and for potential future players as well.”
And he said was “very, very excited” to be coming to Belfast.
“I'm a dual citizen; I have my UK passport, yet I've never experienced the life over there,” he said.
“ I've never been overseas. So, I'm really looking forward to it. Going back seeing my mum's old roots, old stomping grounds and yeah, just to be in Belfast and experience the culture and the team and the professional life as well.
Meanwhile, Keefe said there had been “a high demand” for Ruopp’s signature and he was delighted they got the deal over the line.
“I am pleased he has chosen Belfast for his first full pro season,” he said. “He will bring a physical presence to the Giants defence core, and, having been a Captain before, he brings valued leadership to the group. I think he will make a big impression with the fans.”